Hanö Bay in Southern Sweden – more than just sandy beaches

The province of Scania in Southern Sweden boasts some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the country. Our journey therefore took us from Skanör and Falsterbo on the west coast in a wide arc along the southern coastline to the long Hanö Bay on the east coast. The route led through Trelleborg and Ystad, past beautiful beaches at Löderups Strandbad and Mälarshusens Strandbad. North of Stenshuvud National Park, 20 kilometres of sandy beach stretch as far as the eponymous island of Hanö, which is already in the province of Blekinge. The beach slopes gently into the sea and is perfect for swimming, while the dunes behind it are ideal for cycling or hiking. You’ll find holiday home settlements and campsites scattered through the coastal forests. In Rigeleje, we found a relaxed campsite in the pine forest right behind the beach. Smaller towns like Kivik, Åhus or Sölvesborg are perfect for a stroll. The combination of a relaxed beach stay, nature experiences and lively towns promised a stay full of contrasts and unforgettable impressions.

Hanö Bay revealed a side of Sweden that touches the soul and reflects the rugged charm of the North in every wave, gust of wind, the swaying of the trees or the laughter of the people. It welcomed us with an almost mirror-smooth sea and endless sandy beach under a bright sun. Unfortunately, the water was so freezing that my feet started to ache after just a short time, as the wind created a cool current. Only a few brave and hardy guests dared a quick dip. Since cool, changeable weather with sun and showers also moved in quickly, I preferred photo walks along the water’s edge, through the dunes and coastal forests, to a swim in the cold sea.

A trip took us to Åhus, a town with an atmosphere all of its own. The cobbled streets led us through the historic quarter of the old town, where colourful houses with blooming hollyhocks vied for attention. The summer flowers in the window boxes glowed in the warm sunlight and gave the town a lively, inviting flair. The café tables were well-filled, especially along the river promenade or in the old monastery. Swedes love ice cream (“glass”). There was an ice cream stall on the market square with a long queue. You could choose from a variety of combinations, from classic flavours to new creations, freshly baked cones and sweet or alcoholic toppings. We definitely wanted to try it – simply delicious. In addition to the historic old town and the harbour of Åhus, the town is shaped by the historic industrial buildings of the “Absolut” distillery. The high-proof Absolut Vodka has been produced here since 1879.

In the hinterland, we found our way along small country roads to the remote moated castle of Vittskövle. It is a remarkable Renaissance ensemble with a three-storey brick complex featuring two round towers and a moat, built in the mid-16th century. In summer, the park surrounding the castle is in full bloom. Some might remember their childhood or be familiar with literature: the castle was also mentioned in the Swedish novel and children’s book The Wonderful Adventures of Nils by Selma Lagerlöf. After some lovely days in this region, a longer day’s journey through the hinterland via Hörby and Klippan (namesake of the legendary IKEA sofa) took us back to the west coast, where we wanted to set up our next base camp on the island of Tjörn, north of Gothenburg.